5 Day Tour in Delphi, Meteora, Santorini, Mykonos and Delos

If you’re dreaming of ticking off some of Greece’s most iconic sights in a compact trip, this 5-day tour offers a broad sweep of the country’s highlights. It’s designed for travelers who want a structured, guided experience that covers ancient ruins, breathtaking monasteries, and lively islands—all with convenient transportation included. We’ve taken a close look at what this trip really offers, and here’s our honest take.

Two things we genuinely like about this tour are the well-organized itinerary—which seamlessly links historical sites with island adventures—and the inclusion of some key UNESCO sites, like Delphi and Meteora. These add real value for anyone interested in Greece’s cultural treasures. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the pace, which is quite packed—if you prefer slow travel or more free time, this might feel rushed.

This tour would suit those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, are comfortable with group tours, and are excited to hop between mainland landmarks and island escapes within a short span.

Key Points

• Wide-ranging itinerary including Delphi, Meteora, Santorini, Mykonos, and Delos, offering a mix of history, culture, and island scenery.
• Comfortable transportation via first-class bus and ferries, making logistics easier and more relaxing.
• Highlights UNESCO sites like Delphi and Meteora monasteries, perfect for history buffs.
• Focus on scenic spots and local flavor—from the sunset in Oia to wine tastings in Mykonos.
• Time management is tight—expect a fast-paced schedule with little downtime.
• Cost reflects a comprehensive experience but consider extra costs for optional tours and meals.

What the Itinerary Looks Like in Practice

Day 1: From Athens to Delphi and Kalambaka

We start early from Athens, with a pickup arranged from your hotel, heading north towards Delphi. The drive takes about three hours, passing through Beotia, a lush agricultural plain. Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse of Theva, the hometown of King Oedipus—a fun tidbit if you’re into myth.

Arriving at Arachova, a charming mountain village on Parnassus, we loved the traditional vibe and mountain views. Afterward, the tour takes you to the archaeological site of Delphi, home to the Temple of Apollo and the famous oracle. You’ll walk through the ruins, see the Castalia Spring, and peer into the treasury of the Athenians. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that.

Later, you’ll drive to Kalambaka, a small town at the foot of Meteora’s towering rocks. The scenery here is striking—imposing sandstone formations that look like something out of a fantasy novel. While brief, this stop sets the stage for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Exploring Meteora’s Monasteries

Meteora is a highlight—no doubt about it. We loved the way the monasteries cling to the peaks, creating a surreal landscape. The tour includes visits to two Byzantine monasteries perched atop rock towers, accessible by stairs and offering panoramic views. These sites are included on UNESCO’s list, and their history as monastic retreats makes them even more interesting.

The guide’s commentary makes you appreciate how these monks managed to build such structures in seemingly inaccessible locations. Be prepared for some walking and stair climbing, but the views and ambiance are worth it. The tour lasts around ten hours, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

In the afternoon, you’ll pass through Thermopylae, famed for the Spartan stand against Persia. It’s a quick photo stop at the statue of Leonidas—enough to get a sense of the historic significance.

Day 3: Santorini’s volcanic wonders and sunset magic

The journey continues with a ferry from Piraeus port to Santorini. The transfer is straightforward, and early morning departures mean you’re on the island by late morning. The optional cruise around Palea Kameni offers a chance to swim in natural thermal springs and enjoy views of volcanic landscapes—though this incurs an extra cost.

We loved the chance to relax in the thermal waters and snap photos of the caldera’s dramatic cliffs. The highlight is the sunset in Oia—trust us, it’s just as spectacular as you’ve heard. The tour includes some of the island’s most beautiful vistas, making it a photographer’s dream.

Day 4: From Santorini to Mykonos

The morning ferry takes you to Mykonos, known worldwide for its lively beaches and vibrant nightlife. Once you arrive, you’re free to explore at your own pace. Wandering through Little Venice and the narrow streets of “Matogiania” is charming.

If you opt for the extra tour, you can visit a local farm for wine and olive oil tastings. We’re told the wine is excellent, and the setting tranquil. The farm experience highlights local flavors—perfect for foodies and those wanting a taste of island life.

Day 5: Return to Athens from Mykonos

The last day involves a ferry back to Piraeus. You’ll be picked up at your hotel, travel to the port, and then ferry to Athens, arriving by late afternoon. It’s a smooth end to a whirlwind trip, with enough time to reflect on your adventures.

What Travelers Are Saying

One review sums up the experience as “disappointing” because of personal emergencies, but that’s a reminder that cancellations and refunds can be tricky. The tour itself seems to get generally positive remarks for the scenery, guides, and logistics.

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views—especially the sunset in Oia and the monasteries of Meteora. The inclusion of entrance fees and ferry tickets adds perceived value, simplifying logistics for busy travelers.

However, some mention the tight schedule, which leaves little room for spontaneous wandering or extra rests. If you’re someone who prefers a slower pace, this could be a downside.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Costs, and Group Size

Transportation is a key strength of this tour. Traveling by first-class bus in Greece makes the long drives comfortable, and the ferries between islands are straightforward. The group size is limited to 15 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

At around $1,637 per person, the cost covers accommodations, most meals, guided tours, entrance fees, and ferry tickets. That’s a fair price considering the inclusions, but keep in mind that some optional excursions are extra and not included in the base price.

Accommodations and Meals

The tour includes four nights’ accommodation, though specific hotel names aren’t provided until closer to your departure. Breakfast is included each morning, giving you a good start to busy days. Dinner is also covered, so you can enjoy local flavors without extra planning.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves a structured itinerary that hits all the must-see sights without the stress of planning, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see Greece’s highlights in a manageable timeframe—covering history, culture, and island scenery.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or a leisurely pace, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. The optional tours, such as wine tastings or snorkeling, are great extras if you want to indulge, but they come at additional costs.

Travelers who value knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics will appreciate how smoothly everything flows, allowing you to focus on enjoying each location.

This tour offers a solid balance of sightseeing and island leisure, making it an appealing choice for travelers eager to experience Greece’s diverse attractions without the hassle of individual bookings.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it generally involves a lot of walking, climbing stairs at Meteora, and long days. Older children or teenagers with an interest in history and landscapes should enjoy it, but parents with younger kids might find the pace challenging.

Are meals included?
The tour includes four breakfasts and dinner, but some optional tours and experiences like cruises or tastings are extra. You might want to budget for additional meals and optional activities.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses first-class buses for mainland travel and ferries for island hops, making long journeys more comfortable. Transfers between hotels and ports are also included.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees, including those for Delphi and Meteora monasteries, are included in the price. However, some sites like the volcano cruise in Santorini may require extra payment.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 26 days in advance, which is good for securing spots on this popular tour.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera—especially for photos of the sunsets, ruins, and landscapes. Be prepared for early mornings and long days.

This 5-day Greece tour is a practical, well-structured way to see many of the country’s top sights, especially if you’re short on time. It balances cultural highlights with island escapes, making it a solid choice if you’re ready for an active, guided adventure.